On 6 November 2024, the Rector Prof. Alfred Vella, together with Pro-Rectors Prof. Valerie Sollars and Prof. Joseph Cacciottolo, welcomed a number of CEOs of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) from the Chamber of Commerce, ICT, Warehouse and Distribution, Financial Investments, Legal and Science sectors, to our University. They were keen to discuss our approach to teaching and learning, as well as our students’ readiness for the evolving labour market.
During this visit, the SME leaders engaged in a thoughtful dialogue, posing questions on how our curriculum equips students with the practical skills and adaptive mindsets needed for the modern workforce. We highlighted our commitment to a hands-on, experiential learning approach, where students tackle real-world challenges through case studies, internships, and project-based learning. This method, we explained, ensures that our graduates are not only knowledgeable but also agile, problem-solving professionals well-prepared to meet industry demands.
The discussion also addressed the accessibility of the University of Malta (UM) for employer stakeholders, particularly in terms of facilitating collaborations, guest lectures, and professional engagement. The SME leaders expressed some concerns over current challenges, such as aligning academic priorities with fast-changing industry needs and ensuring students are up to date with digital and analytical skills. They emphasised the importance of strong university-industry partnerships to bridge this gap and to keep our curriculum relevant and impactful. We look forward to enhancing our ties with the SME sector, reinforcing our shared goal of developing graduates who are both academically skilled and professionally prepared for the demands of the global market.
